Episode 5: Dating an A.I.: When Your Soulmate Needs a Software Update

Ok, I’m a big enough man to admit when I need help. I needed a co-host in a bad way. Well, I got one! My beautiful wife, Stephanie, has graciously (and by “graciously” I mean, she’s agreed to do it on a case-by-case basis… and if I don’t piss her off too bad) agreed to by my co-host!

So, if I’m being honest, Episode 5 is the REAL Episode 1 of Tangled Hearts. Don’t even bother listening to the first 4 episodes. They’re trash. It’s ok. I know they are. You can say it. But now I have a co-host and I understand how podcasts work now (no, no I don’t. But I try). And I think we’re just going to get better from here on out!

In this episode we talk about falling in love with an A.I. app. No, I don’t mean our obsession with ChatGPT writing our emails and texts for us, I mean, there are actual A.I. apps you can buy that will be your girlfriend/boyfriend… even spouse!

I do have to say that we do talk a bit about suicide (or “un-aliving” as my kids call it now for some reason). If you have thoughts of self-harm, please know that you DO matter and people DO love you. I’ve been in that dark spot and thank God I had people rally around me in my pit and just sit with me. You do too.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, there are several resources in the U.S. that offer support

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

• Phone: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Available 24/7, providing free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources.

Crisis Text Line:

• Text HELLO to 741741
• Offers free 24/7 text support with a trained crisis counselor.

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth):

• Phone: 1-866-488-7386
• Text and chat options are also available at their website: The Trevor Project
• Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ young people.

Veterans Crisis Line:

• Phone: 988 and then press 1
• Text: 838255
• Confidential support available 24/7 for veterans and their loved ones.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline

• Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• A confidential, free service for individuals and family members facing mental health and/or substance use disorders, available 24/7 in English and Spanish.

Local Emergency Services:

• If you believe someone is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

These resources provide support, listen without judgment, and can guide individuals to the help they need.